Transforming growth factor-beta in human aqueous humor.
The transforming growth factor-beta s are peptide growth factors known to play a central role in wound healing. Using a specific, in vitro assay of cell growth inhibition, we have detected transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) in 24/24 aqueous humor specimens from eyes undergoing cataract extraction with intraocular lens implantation. The amount of TGF-beta ranged from 2.3 to 8.1 ng/ml (mean +/- SD = 4.5 +/- 1.7 ng/ml), with 61% present in the active form. Subtyping of TGF-beta was performed by addition of antibodies specific for the beta 1 and beta 2 isoforms to the growth inhibition assay, and confirmed with a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. None of the TGF-beta detected was of the beta 1 isoform; in contrast, the beta 2 isoform was present in every sample, implying that it might have originated from ocular tissues. The presence of this potent modulator of tissue repair in aqueous humor suggests a role in the healing processes following intraocular surgery, including glaucoma filtration surgery.
Jampel
H D
HD
Glaucoma Service, Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
Roche
N
N
Stark
W J
WJ
Roberts
A B
AB
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000818:Animals; D001082:Aqueous Humor / Q000737:chemistry*; D004797:Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta / Q000032:analysis* / Q000145:classification
D016212:Transforming Growth Factor beta